India's indigenous communities boast centuries-old, inventive culinary legacies. From flower-based beverages to ant-infused chutneys vying for a GI tag, here's a look at five tribal foods in India.
Demta Chutney
Demta chutney, also known as kai or chapra chutney, is a sour and spicy condiment composed of red weaver ants (Oecophylla smaragdina also known as "demta" by tribals) and red ant eggs. Tribes in Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chattisgarh enjoy this protein- and calcium-rich food. The chutney is prepared by grinding the weaver ants and ant eggs with spices likes garlic, ginger, chillies, and coriander. It is served as a kind of starter for daily meals. The chutney has properties that help treat jaundice, colds, and poor eyesight. Scientists have sought a Geographical Indications (GI) tag for the chutney.